I am so excited to share my Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars Recipe with you! If you love the classic taste of snickerdoodle cookies combined with the creamy texture of cheesecake, you are in for a treat. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a sweet craving at home.
What Are Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars?
Snickerdoodle cheesecake bars combine two of my favorite desserts into one. The base is a buttery snickerdoodle crust, topped with a rich and creamy cheesecake layer flavored with cinnamon. The best part is the snickerdoodle topping that adds a delightful crunch and a sprinkle of sweetness.
Why You’ll Love Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars
I absolutely love making these bars because they are so easy and fun to prepare. The blend of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they have that comforting homemade taste that always brings back warm memories.
Ingredients for Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars
To make these delicious bars, you will need the following ingredients:
Snickerdoodle Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
How to Make Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Snickerdoodle Crust
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time and mix well. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 3: Press the Crust into the Pan
Take about two-thirds of the snickerdoodle dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will be the base of your cheesecake bars.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Gradually add the sugar and mix well. Then, add the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until combined.
Stir in the sour cream and flour until smooth. Finally, add the cinnamon and mix again. The filling should be creamy and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust in the pan. Crumble the remaining snickerdoodle dough on top of the cheesecake filling.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. You can gently shake the pan; if the center is slightly wobbly, it’s okay. It will firm up as it cools.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool in the pan for at least an hour at room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for another 2-3 hours to set completely. Once chilled, slice them into squares and enjoy!
Tips for Best Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the cheesecake filling. Mix just until combined to maintain a creamy texture.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the bars to chill helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
Storing Your Cheesecake Bars
These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container. They also freeze well, so you can enjoy them later!
To Freeze:
- Cut the bars into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
- They can be kept frozen for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
These Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce takes them to another level of indulgence.
Why Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night at home, these bars are a hit. They are easy to make in large batches, making them perfect for sharing. The delightful combination of flavors will wow your family and friends, and they will be asking for the recipe!
FAQ:
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Using low-fat cream cheese is possible, but it may affect the texture slightly. The bars may be less creamy but still delicious.
Can I Add Other Flavors?
Absolutely! You can mix in some chocolate chips, nuts, or even a splash of caramel to the filling for extra flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Tartar?
If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can substitute with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar.
I hope you enjoy making and eating these Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars as much as I do! The combination of the soft, chewy snickerdoodle cookie and the rich, creamy cheesecake is simply irresistible. These bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.